Delayed recognition of hearing loss in infants negatively impacts language development
Stressing that the timely diagnosis of hearing loss in infants is important for early intervention, Opr. Dr. Yunus Karadavut: “When hearing loss is diagnosed late, the optimal development and personal success of babies and children is negatively affected. Because language and communication skills play an important role for the normal development of the child. The delay in learning these skills affects literacy, academic success and personal-social development,” said.
“Personal performance may be adversely affected”
Emphasizing the importance of hearing loss detection for the provision of early intervention services, Opr. Dr Karadavut said: “When hearing loss is diagnosed late, the optimal development and personal success of babies and children is negatively affected. Because language and communication skills play an important role in the normal development of the child. The delay in acquiring of these skills affects literacy, academic success and personal-social development. For this reason, hearing screening is considered important for newborns, infancy and school children both in Turkey and in the world.
“School children at risk”
Adding that school-aged children are at risk, Karadavut said: “Allergies, upper respiratory infections, adenoid and tonsil infections and related fluid buildup in the middle ear, outer and middle ear infections, plug (earwax), trauma, foreignness in the ear. Conditions such as object leakage and genetic diseases can cause hearing loss.Hearing is the most important part for education and communication.During the school years, it becomes more important.The prevalence of permanent hearing loss is reported to increase to 9 per thousand in school age children.Temporary hearing loss affects more than 14 percent of school-age children. The recurrence rate is reported to be 37 percent, even with unilateral hearing loss. Hearing loss increases problems with attention, learning, and social functions. Prevalence of hearing loss in children requires medical and educational support If this cannot be done reached, it will negatively affect school success and cause significant problems for individuals. It causes economic losses in terms of social and land. As a result, hearing loss in school-aged children should not be neglected and the nearest specialist should be consulted.